Dive into a Rock Pool Adventure! Help discover coastal biodiversity
Starting from October 2024, the Marine Biological Association has been in partnership with The Rock Pool Project to engage local communities and promote scientific exploration through rock pooling. The Rock Pool Project is a not-for-profit community interest company founded in Cornwall in 2018, passionate about connecting people of all ages and backgrounds to the incredible wildlife found around the Southwest coastline.
Proudly funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the ScottishPower Foundation, and in partnership with the MBA, The Rock Pool Project launched the Big Rock Pool Challenge in October 2024 – a new initiative that combines competitive rock pooling with citizen science.
What is the Big Rock Pool Challenge?
The Big Rock Pool Challenge is a thrilling, hands-on marine conservation initiative, created in partnership between The Rock Pool Project and the Marine Biological Association. At the monthly BioBlitz Battle, participants will explore the rich marine ecosystems in Southwest England, racing against the clock in friendly competition to discover and document as many marine species as possible. The data participants collect will help scientists and conservationists monitor the health of our coastal habitats and take action to protect them.
These monthly events capture the magic of coastal life and help researchers track changes in species diversity over time. New locations, new discoveries – and YOU can be part of it all.
These Bioblitz events bring people of all ages and experiences together to create a real-time snapshot of marine species thriving in coastal habitats. Whether it’s counting crabs, identifying seaweeds, or spotting starfish, there’s always something exciting to discover.
Why take part?
🔬 Be a scientist for the day – no experience needed!
📸 Discover and document marine species in their natural habitat.
🐚 Contribute to real time research and help protect our marine ecosystems.
🏖️ Family-friendly, fun, and its free!
Our marine ecosystems are facing increasing pressure, and we need your help to protect them. Join the Big Rock Pool Challenge for a fun, hands-on way to contribute to marine conservation. By exploring rock pools and recording your findings, you’ll play a vital role in monitoring the health of our coastal habitats—ensuring their protection for generations to come.
Backed by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the ScottishPower Foundation and guided by the Marine Biological Association’s expertise in scientific data collection, your participation will contribute to valuable scientific research with a real, lasting impact.
Dive in and make a difference today!
Extremely welcoming and friendly and just so brilliant to be around experts who were able to show us just how many amazing things and hidden under our feet!
During phase one of the Challenge, events will take place along the rocky shores of Falmouth and Plymouth. These regions are home to incredibly diverse marine life, making them the perfect setting for our Bioblitz Battle events.
As the Challenge grows, we’ll be adding more locations across the country, ensuring that as many people as possible can get involved in this exciting marine conservation initiative. Keep an eye on our website and social media for announcements and updates. If you are interested in starting a Big Rock Pool Challenge Hub in your local area and lead a movement that connects people with the Ocean contact us now.